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I work. Most of the cases in which the adenoids have
already been removed appear to be improved by injections
against allergic disorders.
The Clinic provides a most suitable place for treatment
of catarrhal deafness by inflation but those cases
of deafness and deaf mutism which require special
schooling still have to wait too long before they receive
attention. The need for more lip reading and speech
therapy centres is very great.
An Ear, Nose and Throat Clinic always works better
when in close relation with the corresponding department
in a hospital and the liaison still available at Erith
District Hospital is a great help.
The outbreak of poliomyelitis in 1947 and 1949 had
a disastrous effect upon the waiting list for tonsillectomy
and, personally, I feel that operating should only stop
when a particularly violent outbreak occurs, but I think
that parents of the children should be informed that there
is some slight added risk of contracting the disease after
operation. Only a few parents decide against operation
at that time and the vast majority are quite agreeable
for the treatment to be carried out.
Finally, local doctors appear to think that admission
for tonsillectomy can be more easily arranged
through the School Clinics, but, as you know, this has
only been possible through the co-operation of Dr.
Mitman at Joyce Green Hospital where they have a
relatively small waiting list.
Dental Treatment.
I am indebted to Mr. Dickson, L.D.S., Orthodontist,
for the following report:—
I have attended Little Danson School Clinic at
approximately fortnightly intervals during 1949 for the
purpose of holding pure orthodontic sessions. Inevitably,
a small proportion of conservative dentistry and
exodontia has associated itself with these sessions but
the main purpose has been the correction of abnormalities
of the permanent dentition.
The response to treatment has, in the main, been
entirely satisfactory but despite careful selection a small
proportion (say 5%) of patients and parents, though keen
enough for treatment until they get it, do not return after
their appliance has been fitted — a corollary of a free
service.
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